Dave Roberts announced the Dodgers' NLDS roster plans on October 3, 2026.
Roberts said the roster would include 14 position players and 12 pitchers, with Josue De Paula and Hyeseong Kim selected for the roster. He described De Paula as having strong strike-zone judgment, quality contact and composure suited to the postseason. Dalton Rushing was considered, Roberts noted, but eight at-bats in two months and an inability to catch put him behind.
Roberts characterized the decisions to exclude Jack and Justin Robleski as difficult after considering the opposing position-player group. He also stated that Edgardo Henriquez was on the roster.
Roberts said the bullpen had enough balance from its right-handed pitchers despite the opponent's stronger results against left-handed pitching. He stated that the first two starters would be left-handed and that three starters were guaranteed to pitch in the series. The rotation was arranged with Blake Snell first and Yoshinobu Yamamoto next to set up the pitchers going forward.
Roberts praised Walt Weiss as a relatable connector who understands the Braves' culture and lets his players play, adding that Weiss is an extension of Brian Snitker. The Dodgers planned to manage the heat primarily through hydration and by being mindful of the starting pitcher.
Mookie Betts was named the leadoff hitter, followed by Shohei Ohtani, Will Smith and Freddie Freeman. Roberts' roster and lineup decisions set the Dodgers' plan for the NLDS.